01 June 2014

By following this book one can create and preserve Dharma (good), Artha (wealth) and Kama (happiness) – and also destroy their opposites: evil, poverty and sorrow. [15.1.72]

The four branches of knowledge are philosophy, the Vedas, economics and politics. Philosophy is the lamp that illuminates all sciences; it provides the techniques for all actions; it is the pillar that supports Dharma. We must study philosophy because it helps us to distinguish between Dharma and Adharma in the study of the Vedas, between profit and loss in the study of economics, and between good and bad policies in the study of politics. Studying the other three sciences by the light of philosophy keeps our minds steady in adversity and prosperity, and makes us proficient in thought, speech and action. [1.2.10]

May the wisdom of Chanakya and the strength of Chandragupta be with us always.